2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Buick Skylark
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Buick Skylark (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (207 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1988 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Buick |
| Model | 156 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
